Networking

Many job contacts are made through networking, and not necessarily all online. Be sure to go to as many in-person events, interviews, and job fairs as you can while you are searching for a job and even after you are employed.

Create a Network

Networking is utilizing the people you know to help you with your job search. Basically, talking to people about what kind of job you are looking for and in what industry.

This doesn’t mean you are asking your contacts for a job, but letting them know you are in the market. Your contacts may know potential employers.

Know your Objective

To start, think about your objective and what you want to say to your contacts and some questions you may have for them. Prepare an elevator speech:

Elevator Speech

An elevator speech is a two-minute description of your skills and career goals.
It's an easy way to share what you want to learn from someone who is in a position to help you.
Here's an example:
"Hi. My name is ____________.
I'm looking for ( a kind of job ) in ( an industry, field, or location ).
I really enjoy ( something about a past job or experience ) .
I'm good at ( a certain job skill )."
After you’ve briefly stated these facts, you can ask for help or advice. For example:
"Do you have any advice for me?"
"Do you know anything about this company?"
"Do you know anyone who does know about ______________?"
"Can I use your name to contact them?"

Make a list

Begin listing the people that you know. They may not be job leads themselves, but may know people in the industry you're targeting.

Organize your contacts and start building this network by reaching out to your closest contacts until you become more comfortable. These may include immediate family and close friends, colleagues, teachers, parents of children’s friends, friends of friends, former coworkers or employers, etc.

Be sure to track your communications with a spreadsheet or notebook.

Be prepared

Make sure you have your resume and business cards prepared. You may be asked for them once you begin reaching out to your contacts.